“THE BEST MOMENTS OF THE SEASON WERE WHEN I WAS TEACHING THE 4, 5 AND 6 YEAR OLDS. NOW I SEE WHAT THE COACHES SAW WHEN I WAS YOUNG.”
Meet AJ
Since joining KCTL as a 9 year old in 2015, AJ has grown up in our program and become one of KCTL’s most experienced and advanced players. His work ethic, grit, and determination have fueled his success on court, while his perseverance and sportsmanship have earned him much recognition over the years. Year-round, he spends six days a week on court practicing, competing, and oftentimes volunteering to mentor our younger kids. He is a favorite among the youngsters, and a star on his high school tennis team. AJ is a true role model who gives back at KCTL to ensure younger children from his community can find their own passions and pursuits through tennis.
“KCTL TAUGHT ME TO PERSEVERE AND WORK HARD AS A PERSON. I WANT TO TRY HARD TO GET AS GOOD AS THE OTHER PEOPLE THAT I PLAY WITH.”
Meet Gabby
Gabby joined Kings County Tennis League in 2018. Over the past three year, she has transformed from a shy girl to a leader off and on the court — even becoming the captain of her middle school tennis team! She participates in every KCTL program available to her, including our Buddy Program which matched her with her mentors, Emma and Alexis! Emma describes Gabby as “a funny, determined, kind young woman, on and off court, whose potential is boundless." Gabby is an exceptional role model for the entire KCTL community and recently received the 2021 Breakpoint Award, KCTL’s most prestigious annual recognition and an honor that demonstrates the true leader she is in the KCTL community.
“DURING MY TIME WITH KCTL, I LEARNED THAT IT’S IMPORTANT TO TRY AND LEARN FROM MY MISTAKES.”
Meet Ramzi
Ramzi may only be eight years old, but in just two years with KCTL, he will tell you that he has "learned how to hit the ball, how to play with other kids and that it’s OK to lose.” At home during the pandemic, Ramzi drew inspiration from our coaches and made his own instructional tennis videos. In his lessons, Ramzi teaches exercises and drills, and he encourages his viewers to do their best, no matter their abilities — a key component of KCTL culture. Watch one of his videos below.
